The students came together for the first summer session in the beginning of July where they made their own writing journals. We discussed how journals are an important form of communication. The students were excited to begin writing their stories and ideas in them!

Students communicated their thoughts and feelings about different questions posted around the room during a session. They enjoyed both writing their responses as well and reading what their peers had written.

The students had to use their communication skills to plant the perfect garden. They had to decide where to plant the vegetables, who was in charge of fertilizer, who would keep the planting in straight lines and who would water when the planting was finished. Some students made plant markers where they had to use their spelling skills. They also painted pictures of the different vegetables on the markers. While in the garden, they searched online what the vegetables or herbs would look like when grown to assist them with their illustrations. When the garden was planted the students voiced their favorite part of the process. Some actually said, “I Loved Weeding!”

The students planted their herb garden! They enjoyed a healthy snack, made by them, of infused waters(mint and lemon, basil and lime) and fresh chive dip with chips. The students discussed different uses for the herbs and how they grow. We plan on using the herbs this summer during our sessions.

Our Mission

R

RL works to strengthen the community by empowering its members with better communication skills. And we do that in a way that may surprise you. We use recipes – literal and figurative ones – to build literacy. “Our recipes” are created with the help of our local partners. Because of their hands on involvement, the children learn about their local environment and also build healthier lifestyles. Our programs take place in Florida and New York and are expanding internationally, beginning in Italy.